Holiday Tree Decorations

To choose a theme or not

Some people like to have a color theme when they decorate their tree, others use a mixture of various ornaments that they like and some use the decorations that they have collected over the years that may have a special significance to them.

If this is your first Christmas Tree and you don't have any ornaments yet, then it is a good idea to start off simply. Choose a color or type of ornament, and add some contrasting pieces for variety. You can change the theme each year by changing a few pieces, but still using much of what you already have. You might decide on stars this year; next year can be something else but you will be able to use some of your stars for contrast.

Lights on

Lights are the first thing to arrange on the bare tree. Try to spread them evenly around the tree so there are no 'holes' in the lighting. Turn them on and step back to see the effect.

Adding Large Decorations.

Use larger ornament balls (3 to 4 inches), floral picks (4 to 5 inches) or other large ornaments like stars, angels, snowmen etc. to fill in any obvious gaps. Again, stand back to see how you are going.

Adding Garlands.

You can use any type of garland that suits your theme or appeals to you. It might be a traditional popcorn garland, or one of cranberry, paper, candy, beads, ribbon, foil or tinsel. How long should the garland be? The general rule is 2 yards of garland for every foot of tree height. The color you choose should be your theme color or coordinate with the ornaments.

Start at the top of the tree and work you way down draping it in curves that increase gradually as you move down the tree.

Smaller Ornaments

Stand back and see how the tree looks so far. You are now ready for small ornaments. These can be any shape that follows your theme or appeals to you. Traditional ornaments include stars, balls, apples, angels, cherubs, tin soldiers, doves etc.

Finishing Touches.

There are many things you can add to the tips of the branches for special effects. They need to be small and light so not to weigh down the branches. Old fashioned tinsel icicles are lovely.

Tree Toppers.

There are many styles of Christmas tree toppers, the traditional being a star or an angel. You can use what you like that complements your theme and tree. Choose a size that is in proportion to your tree and not too heavy. After you have it on, stand back and admire your beautifully decorated Christmas tree.